Which of the following is NOT a core element of nurse coaching?

• A. Prescribing medications.
• B. Trust and rapport-building.
• C. Collaborative goal setting.
• D. Active listening.

Answer: (C)

Nurse coaching centers on how the nurse communicates and supports the patient to make and sustain health-focused changes. Building trust and rapport creates a safe space for honest discussion, and active listening helps the coach understand the patient’s values, motivations, and barriers. Collaborative goal setting is essential because it actively involves the patient in choosing realistic, meaningful steps and plans to reach those goals. Prescribing medications, however, is outside the nurse coaching scope; it’s a medical function handled by a prescriber. Nurses may coordinate with the care team and reinforce treatment plans, but the act of prescribing is not part of nurse coaching.